Kelley Mathews

40 Questions About Women in Ministry charts a course for understanding differing views on the topic. regarding the ministries of women. The accessible question-and-answer format guides readers to specific areas of confusion, and authors helpfully zero in on the foundations of varied beliefs and practices. Edwards and Mathews cover interpretive, theological, historical, and practical matters such as: What did God mean by the woman as man's "helper"? How is it that Christians reach different conclusions about 1 Timothy 2:11-15? How did Western culture influence the role of women in society and the church? Combining a strong adherence to Scripture, vast academic and ministry experiences, and a commitment to Christ-honoring dialogue, 40 Questions About Women in Ministry is a valuable guide to pastors, ministry leaders, church groups, and seminarians. "Based on extensive research, the authors present various viewpoints fairly and clearly, and offer concise explanations to equip readers to draw their own conclusions on these pressing questions." --Lynn Cohick, Provost/Dean of Academic Affairs, Professor of New Testament, Northern Seminary "Raise the topic of women in the church and the roles they have and you better be prepared to have your blood pressure checked along with the person you are talking to about the topic. Here is a book that calmly lays out the view's pro and con for the array of options the topic yields. It does so evenhandedly." --Darrell Bock, Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies, Executive Director for Cultural Engagement for The Hendricks Center, Dallas Theological Seminary

With Millennial and Generation Z women coming of age in our churches and society, new approaches to women's ministry are required to meet their distinct needs. Drawing on decades of experience ministering to women, authors Sue Edwards and Kelley Mathews explain how their Transformation Model can energize women's ministry for all generations and in multiple settings. Individual chapters are devoted to applying the Model, which is centered on Scripture and building relationships, to ministry in the local church, the college campus, and cross-culturally in missions. Organic Ministry to Women is packed with practical advice and real-life illustrations of how to implement the principles of the Transformation Model. Edwards and Mathews also profile numerous leading women's ministers like Jen Wilkin, Priscilla Shirer, and Jackie Hill-Perry, drawing wisdom and inspiration from their lives and ministries. Helpful appendixes provide additional resources including sample job descriptions for ministry leaders, a Bible study lesson, and a training guide for small group leaders. A revised and expanded version of New Doors in Ministry to Women, this updated edition takes into account the latest cultural and ministry trends and is an invaluable resource for current and future leaders in ministry to women.

Women thirst for intimacy and long for meaningful activity. They often come into churches looking for truth, relevance, and relationships--three things that a healthy women's ministry can provide if it is centered around genuine study of the Word of God, the place where successful transformation begins. The authors offer a new model--the Transformation Model--for women's ministry that adapts to and addresses the needs of women unique to the postmodern church. The model helps churches define their purpose in women's ministry, refine their focus, and minister to women at all stages of life. Since the heart of the model is Bible study, the Transformation Model works equally well in the church, on campuses, and on the mission field. The book provides practical suggestions for implementing this model in a variety of venues, and includes topics such as how to evaluate women's needs, choose a team of leaders, select or write a Bible study, run a board meeting, and survive conflict. Throughout the book are profiles of women who have led the way in applying the Transformation Model in their settings. These "Pioneer Profiles" include women who serve in the church, on school campuses, and around the world. Many of them are still in the trenches of ministry, and their experiences lend an immediate authenticity to life-changing women's ministries.